It’s getting chilly outside and there are many people in need who don’t have proper clothing for the weather. The Lethbridge College Kodiaks athletic department is helping the less fortunate stay warm this winter with their annual Warm Paws program.

The Kodiaks are collecting winter gear from now through to Dec. 14. Items including toques, scarves, mittens, socks and other outerwear are all gratefully accepted.

Donated items will be distributed to people in need through the Hands on Early Learning Centre on campus, Streets Alive and Wood Homes. Donations will also be given to international students and students living in residence who are in need of warmer gear. 

Warm Paws is a meaningful campaign for the student athletes as community support is important to the Kodiaks, including women’s soccer player Emily Godfrey.

“It’s nice to give back to the community since the Kodiaks have received so much support from the community,” says Godfrey.

Students and staff can drop of their donations at any of the drop-off sites on campus including the bookstore, athletics office, Buchanan Library, Kodiak House Residence, Lethbridge College Students’ Association office and the equipment room in the PE Building.

The Lethbridge College Bookstore will begin selling toques on Nov. 21 that can be donated. All proceeds from the toque sales will go towards Warm Paws as well. 

The Kodiaks have planned special events to gather clothing donations during upcoming Kodiaks home games. These include “Toss Your Toques” taking place between volleyball games on Nov. 21, “Shoot Your Socks” on Nov. 22 during half time at the basketball games and “Throw Mitts in the Pit” in between volleyball games on Nov. 29.

“It’s a great way to get people involved that come to our games,” says Godfrey.

Game attendees are encouraged to bring donations to participate in these events. Visit gokodiaks.ca for game times.